Oral Answers to Questions

Callum Anderson Excerpts

Thursday 22nd October 2026 Commons Chamber

[Stephen Morgan]

We recognise that stakeholders may have different views, and legislation provides a process for objections and appeals. I understand that the Scotch Whisky Association has appealed to the first tier tribunal; the matter will be determined in due course. I say politely to the hon. Member that due process has been followed, and rigorous scrutiny processes have been adhered to.

[Callum Anderson (Buckingham and Bletchley) (Lab)]

T1. If she will make a statement on her departmental responsibilities.

[The Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Dame Angela Eagle)]

We have had a difficult summer, with a prolonged period without rain, which has put enormous stress on our landscapes. Our farms and natural resources are under increased pressure due to climate change. The Prime Minister has asked me to ensure that communities have more of a say in how water is managed, which is all the more important given the summer that we have had. The warnings are clear: if we are to be resilient when it comes to water and food security, we have to help farmers farm differently. Resilience is also about ensuring that the poorest in our communities can have access to good, nutritious food.

[Callum Anderson]

Farmers across north Buckinghamshire tell me that rising input costs and global pressures on grain prices are eroding their profit margins and their ability to produce food, so they welcome the Government’s food road map. Will my right hon. Friend explain how she is working with farmers to boost profitability, and might she consider a trip to north Buckinghamshire to hear from my farmers directly?

[Dame Angela Eagle]

I think my hon. Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice (Emma Hardy), the Minister for water and flooding, visited last week, so my hon. Friend is obviously trying to get a brace. The Government are backing farm profitability through £11.8 billion for sustainable farming and food production; investment in productivity and innovation; and action to make supply chains fairer. We are also working to open up new trading opportunities. The farming road map sets out how Government will support farmers in cutting costs, accessing markets and building resilient businesses.